AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING, INC.

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING, INC. Patent applications

Patent application number

Title

Published

20160017932

ACTUATOR FOR A DRIVELINE COMPONENT - An actuator with an indexing guide, first and second indexing rings, an actuator output, a spring and a motor. The indexing guide has a first cam. The first indexing ring is slidably mounted to the indexing guide and includes a second cam. The second indexing ring is slidably and rotatably disposed on the indexing guide and has spline teeth, which engage the first cam, and a third cam that engages the second cam. The spring exerts a force onto the second indexing ring that drives the second indexing ring toward the first indexing ring. The motor is configured to reciprocate the first indexing ring so that cooperation between the second and third cams and between the spline teeth and the first cam causes axial and rotational movement of the second indexing ring about an actuation axis.

01-21-2016

20150308810

SENSOR ASSEMBLY - A sensor assembly having a pair of sensors and a pair of sensor targets. Each of the sensors is an eddy current sensor that defines X, Y and Z axes that are orthogonal to one another such that the X-axes are aligned to a movement axis along which a structure is to be moved. The sensor targets are coupled to one another for common movement and are formed of an electrically conductive material that is configured to interact with a respective one of the eddy current sensors to cause the sensors to produce sensor signals that each vary in a distinct manner with movement of the targets parallel to the movement axis. The targets are configured such that their coordinated movement in a direction parallel to the Z-axes as they are moved along the movement axis has no effect on the determined location of the structure. A method is also provided.

10-29-2015

20150308547

ACTUATOR DEVICE HAVING CAM AND FOLLOWER AND CONTROLLER CONFIGURED TO EMPLOY RATE-BASED METHODOLOGY TO IDENTIFY POSITIONING OF FOLLOWER ON CAM AT PREDETERMINED LOCATION - An actuator device having a motor driven cam, a follower coupled to an output member and driven by the cam, and a controller for controlling operation of the motor. The cam has a first cam surface, a second cam surface and a lift portion between the first and second cam surfaces. The controller is configured to identify a predetermined point on the lift portion as the follower is moved relative to the cam along the lift portion toward the second cam surface. The controller identifies the predetermined point based on a rate of change in the position of the output member along an output member axis as a function of the rotational position of the cam about a cam axis. The controller controls operation of the motor based on the predetermined point to position the follower on the second cam surface.

10-29-2015

20150247562

DISCONNECTING DRIVELINE COMPONENT - A driveline component that includes an input member, a differential case, a differential gearset housed in the differential case, a first clutch and a second clutch. The first clutch is configured to selectively transmit rotary power between the input member and the differential case. The second clutch is configured to selectively transmit rotary power between the input member and the differential case. The first clutch has a first engagement time and that is less than a second engagement time of the second clutch.

09-03-2015

20150210124

AXLE ASSEMBLY HAVING WHEEL HUBS CONFIGURED FOR USE IN VEHICLE WITH CENTRAL TIRE INFLATION SYSTEM - An axle assembly, including an axle shaft, annular member, hub, inner and outer hub bearings, abutment ring, first and second seals, and an air inlet port. The annular member is disposed about the axle shaft. The hub is coupled for rotation with the axle shaft and defines an outlet port. The first and second shaft seals form seals between the hub and the annular member. The air inlet port is mounted to one of the annular member and the abutment ring and includes an inlet boss. A first fluid conduit is defined by the abutment ring or both the abutment ring and the inlet port. The first fluid conduit is in fluid communication with the air inlet boss. The second shaft seal is spaced apart from the first shaft seal along the rotational axis to at least partially define a second fluid conduit in fluid communication inlet and outlet ports.

07-30-2015

20150198262

VARIABLE FLOW VALVE - A variable flow valve having an externally threaded valve body, a valve element and an actuator that includes coil and a plunger assembly. The coil can be operated to move the plunger assembly to drive the valve element into engagement with a seat surface on a valve seat in the valve body.

07-16-2015

20150133266

HYDRAULICALLY OPERATED CLUTCH - The present teachings provide for a power transmitting component including a friction clutch, a reservoir, a hydraulic ram to actuate the clutch, a motor, and first and second pumps simultaneously driven by the motor. The first pump is in fluid communication with the reservoir and the ram. The first pump is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to the ram when the motor rotates in a first direction. The second pump is coupled to the reservoir and provides hydraulic fluid to the ram when the output shaft rotates in the first direction and a pressure differential between the ram and the second pump is less than or equal to a predetermined pressure differential. The second pump has a displacement greater than the first pump and is configured to provide hydraulic fluid to the ram at a lower pressure and higher flow rate than the first pump.

05-14-2015

20150120366

Electronic Purchased Part Order Data Management System and Method - The computer-implemented purchased part order data management system employs a database management computer hosting a purchased part order database and an automated data collection and review computer communicating with the database management computer. The data collection and review computer has a purchased part order data (PPOD) repository and a messaging system that includes a message routing data structure. Through an interface, a user interacts with the data collection and review system to add PPOD information, which is then made available to other users for review. The data collection and review computer records the status of the PPOD as it undergoes the review process and mediates which party is next invited to review the PPOD information. Once finally reviewed, the automated data collection and review computer issues a prompt to the database management computer to ingest information based on the PPOD.

04-30-2015

20150119153

Propshaft Assembly With Damper - A propshaft assembly that includes a tubular member, first and second end connections coupled to opposite ends of the tubular member and a damper that is received in the tubular member and positioned between the first and second end connections. The tubular member has a wall member that defines an interior circumferential surface. The damper has a first damping device, a second damping device and a third damping device. The first damping device has a first core and a first damping member that is fixed to the first core. The first damping member extends helically about the first core and engages the interior circumferential surface. The second damping device is formed of foam and is positioned in the tubular member between the first and third damping devices. The second damping device engages the interior circumferential surface. The third damping device has a second core and a second damping member that is fixed to the second core. The second damping member extends helically about the second core and engages the interior circumferential surface.

04-30-2015

20150038279

BEARING ASSEMBLY CONFIGURED TO HANDLE AXIAL AND RADIAL LOADS - A bearing assembly and a related power transmitting component. The bearing assembly includes a first bearing, which is an angular contact bearing, and a second bearing, which is a tapered roller bearing. The first bearing has a first inner bearing race, a first outer bearing race and a plurality of spherical bearing balls disposed between the first inner bearing race and the first outer bearing race. The second bearing assembly has a second inner bearing race, a second outer bearing race and a plurality of tapered bearing rolls disposed between the second inner bearing race and the second outer bearing race. One of the first inner and first outer bearing races is fixedly coupled to one of the second inner and second outer bearing races for axial and rotational movement therewith. The first and second bearings are configured to handle thrust in a common axial direction.

02-05-2015

20150033909

AXLE ASSEMBLY - An axle assembly having a tube, a shaft received in the tube, a wheel bearing disposed between the tube and the shaft. The axle assembly also includes a thrust washer, a retaining ring and a snap ring, each of which is mounted about the shaft. The wheel bearing supports the shaft for rotation in the tube. The thrust washer abuts both a shoulder on the shaft and an inner bearing race of the wheel bearing. The retaining ring abuts the inner bearing race such that the wheel bearing is disposed between the thrust washer and the retaining ring. The snap ring abuts the retaining ring and limits movement of the retaining ring in a direction away from the wheel bearing.

02-05-2015

20140274528

TWO-SPEED DRIVE MODULE - A drive module that includes an electric motor and a multi-speed transmission assembly having a two-speed planetary transmission stage. The multi-speed transmission assembly outputs rotary power to a differential assembly.

09-18-2014

20140260789

POWER TRANSMITTING COMPONENT WITH A DIFFERENTIAL BEARING SYSTEM - A power transmitting component that includes a housing, a case, a bearing, a bearing adjuster and a clip. The housing defines a bearing bulkhead and a threaded aperture that are disposed about an axis. The bearing is coupled to the case to support the case for rotation about the axis relative to the housing. The bearing adjuster is threadably engaged to the threaded aperture and abuts the bearing. The bearing adjuster has a plurality of circumferentially spaced-apart securing features. The clip has a mount and a set of mating securing features. The clip is received on the bearing bulkhead such that the mount is secured to the bearing bulkhead in a snap-fit manner and the set of mating securing features are engaged to a corresponding set of the securing features.

09-18-2014

20140251081

HOUSING ASSEMBLY - An assembly that includes a tube mount, a tube, a first fillet weld, and a second fillet weld. The tube mount has a tubular side wall, a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart notches formed on a first end of the tubular side wall, and a securing aperture formed through the tubular side wall. The notches form a plurality of teeth. The tube is received into the tube mount. The first fillet weld couples the tube to the tube mount. The first fillet weld is formed about a perimeter the first end such that each of the first welds is formed substantially completely over the entirety of the teeth. The second fillet weld couples the tube to the tube mount. The second fillet weld is formed about a perimeter of the securing aperture such that the second fillet weld is formed substantially completely over an inside perimeter of the securing aperture.

09-11-2014

20140251080

POWER TRANSMITTING COMPONENT WITH MULTI-PART HOUSING ASSEMBLY HAVING CONTINUOUS SEALING FLANGE - A housing assembly for a power transmitting component that includes first and second housing structures, which define a cavity and a shaft bore, and a gasket. The first housing structure includes a pair of first end walls, a first seal flange, and a pair of saddles. The first seal flange extends about the cavity. The saddles are arch-shaped and coupled to the first end walls. The shaft bore is formed through the first end walls and the saddles. The second housing structure includes a pair of second end walls, and a second seal flange. The second seal flange extends about the cavity and is configured to abut the first seal flange. The second end walls define saddle recesses into which the saddles are received. The gasket is received between the first and second seal flanges and between the saddles and surfaces of the saddle recesses.

09-11-2014

20140239194

METHOD FOR INSPECTING CONTACT BETWEEN MATING GEARS - A method for inspecting contact between mating gears that includes applying a mixture to teeth of a first gear, teeth of a second gear, or the teeth of both the first and second gears. The mixture includes a lubricating oil and a fluorescing dye. The first gear is rotated to drive the second gear. While the second gear is being driven by the first gear, electromagnetic radiation, such as ultra-violet radiation, is applied to the teeth of at least one of the first and second gears to cause the teeth to fluoresce. The fluorescing teeth of the second gear are inspected to identify a tooth inspection zone that approximates a zone of contact between the teeth of the first and second gears.

08-28-2014

20140213412

CONTROL STRATEGY FOR OPERATING A LOCKING DIFFERENTIAL - A drive train having a locking differential and a control unit for controlling operation of the locking differential. The control unit is responsive to selected vehicle characteristics to sua sponte activate or inactivate a locking mechanism of the locking differential to cause the locking differential to operate in a locked manner or an unlocked manner, respectively. A method for operating a locking differential is also provided. The method includes: utilizing only preselected vehicle criteria indicative of the operational state of the vehicle to identify a situation in which a locking mechanism associated with the locking differential is to be energized; and responsively energizing the locking mechanism.

TWO POSITION ACTUATOR WITH SENSING AND CONTROL - An actuator that causes a mode clutch to shift between an engaged position and a disengaged position is provided. The actuator comprises a motor having an output. A shift cam is caused to rotate based on the output of the motor. The shift cam has a cam profile surface. A cam follower rides along the cam profile surface upon rotation of the shift cam. Movement of the cam follower causes movement of a mode fork resulting in the mode clutch shifting between the engaged and disengaged positions. A sensor outputs a voltage to a controller based on a physical location of the cam follower. The controller activates the motor based on the voltage.

05-29-2014

20140121056

DIFFERENTIAL WITH TAILORED TORQUE BIAS RATIOS - A differential with one or more friction and thrust washer sets so that axially generated thrust forces can be used in certain situations to affect a torque bias ratio of the differential.

05-01-2014

20140080655

DISCONNECTABLE DRIVELINE FOR ALL-WHEEL DRIVE VEHICLE - A disconnectable driveline arrangement for an all-wheel drive vehicle includes a power take-off unit having a disconnect mechanism, and a drive module having a torque transfer device and a limited slip clutch assembly.

03-20-2014

20140073471

DRIVE TRAIN COMPONENT WITH STRUCTURAL COVER - A drivetrain component is provided that may include a housing, a component, a cover and a pair of bearings. The housing may define an internal cavity and a pair of bearing bulkheads. The component may be received in the internal cavity. The cover may be coupled to the housing and may close a side of the internal cavity. The cover may include a pair of bearing caps. Each of the bearing caps may be mounted to a corresponding one of the bearing bulkheads. The pair of bearings may be received on the component. Each bearing may be engaged to an associated one of the bearing bulkheads and an associated one of the bearing caps.

03-13-2014

20140069764

TORQUE TRANSFER UNIT WITH INTEGRATED ELECTRIC DRIVE MOTOR - An axle assembly comprises a power transmission device including a housing having a cylindrically shaped sidewall. The power transmission device selectively communicates rotatable motion from an input member to an output member. A frictional clutch is disposed in the housing and includes a drum. A first and a second axle shaft selectively drive a first and a second drive wheel, respectively. A differential selectively transfers drive torque from the output member to at least one of the first and second axle shafts. An electric motor comprising a coil and a plurality of magnets is provided on the axle assembly. In one example, the coil is disposed on the housing and the magnets are disposed on the drum. The coil is configured to selectively energize to provide one of a positive or negative torque input to the output member.

MOTOR VEHICLE WITH DISCONNECTABLE ALL-WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM - A vehicle with a primary driveline that is configured to distribute rotary power to a first set of vehicle wheels and a power transmitting device that can be selectively operated to transmit rotary power to a secondary driveline. The power transmitting device has an input member, which is driven by the primary driveline, and an output member that is selectively coupled to the input member to receive rotary power therefrom. The secondary driveline comprises a differential, a pair of shafts, and a side shaft coupling that selectively interrupts power transmission between the differential and one of the shafts.

12-19-2013

20130303326

Disconnectable Driveline For All-Wheel Drive Vehicle - A disconnectable driveline arrangement for an all-wheel drive vehicle includes a power take-off unit having a disconnect mechanism, a rear drive module having a torque transfer device providing a disconnect function, a speed synchronization function and a torque biasing function, and a control system for controlling actuation of the disconnect mechanism and the torque transfer device. The power take-off unit and the rear drive module can each be equipped with a two-speed range shift unit which, under the control of the control system, permits establishment of high and low speed drive connections.

11-14-2013

20130303324

TWO-SPEED DISCONNECTING DRIVELINE WITH ONE REDUCTION GEARSET - A vehicle driveline that includes an input member, a multi-speed transmission, a first differential assembly, a first bevel ring gear and a mode clutch that are disposed axially along a rotational axis of the input member. The multi-speed transmission includes a range collar that is axially movable along the input member axis.

11-14-2013

20130303323

POWER TRANSMITTING COMPONENT - A power transmitting component with a housing, a shaft and a seal. The housing has a wall member, a shaft bore, and a shield wall. The shaft bore is formed through the wall member. The shield wall is coupled to and extends outwardly from the wall member. The shield wall is formed about the shaft bore and defines a drain spout. The shaft is received through the shaft bore. The seal is received in the shaft bore and sealingly engages the housing and the shaft. The drain spout is configured to drain liquid from a space that is radially inward of the shield wall when the power transmitting component is disposed in a predetermined orientation.

11-14-2013

20130217532

DIFFERENTIAL LUBRICATION FEED SYSTEM IN A DRIVE AXLE ASSEMBLY - A method for lubricating an axle assembly can include: coupling a pair of tapered roller bearing to opposite ends of a differential housing; placing the differential housing into a carrier housing assembly such that the tapered roller bearings support the differential housing on the carrier housing assembly for rotation about a first axis; collecting a lubricant proximate a side of one of the tapered roller bearings opposite the differential housing; and rotating the differential housing about the first axis to cause the one of the tapered roller bearings to move a portion of the collected lubricant through the differential housing. A related axle assembly is also provided.

08-22-2013

20130029797

MULTIPLE PUMP CONFIGURATION FOR ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP DIFFERENTIAL AND TORQUE TRANSFER DEVICE - A hydraulic system for a vehicle drivetrain includes a torque transfer device having a first actuator that actuates to selectively communicate rotatable motion from an input member to an output member. A limited slip differential selectively transfers drive torque from the output member to at least one of the first and second axle shafts. A motor drives a first and a second output shaft. A first pump is rotatably driven by the first output shaft. The first pump selectively supplies the hydraulic fluid to the first actuator. A second pump is rotatably driven by the second output shaft. The second pump selectively supplies the hydraulic fluid to the second actuator.

01-31-2013

20120295753

Bearing Preload Adjuster - A bearing preload adjuster assembly can include a first annular member defining a first outer wall having a threaded region and a first inner wall having a plurality of first ramped surfaces formed thereon. The first outer wall can threadably engage a corresponding threaded region of an axle assembly. A second annular member can define a second outer wall having a plurality of second ramped surfaces formed thereon and can be received in the first annular member such that the second outer wall faces the first inner wall. A biasing member can bias the second annular member in a first axial direction such that the plurality of second ramped surfaces are in selective meshed engagement with the plurality of first ramped surfaces. A retaining member can be coupled to the first inner wall and can retain the biasing member and second annular member within the first annular member.

11-22-2012

20120283060

LUBRICATION DISTRIBUTION WITHIN REAR DRIVE MODULE - A power transmission device constructed in accordance to one example of the present teachings includes a torque transfer device and a differential. The torque transfer device includes a housing. The torque transfer device selectively communicates rotatable motion from an input member to an output member. A frictional clutch is disposed in the housing that actuates to selectively transfer torque between the input member and the output member. A first and a second axle shaft selectively drives a first and a second drive wheel, respectively. The differential selectively transfers drive torque from the output member to at least one of the first and second axle shafts. A fluid distribution system distributes a common fluid for actuating the frictional clutch and for lubricating select components of the differential.

11-08-2012

20120238394

DISCONNECTING REAR DRIVE AXLE FOR LONGITUDINALLY ARRANGED POWERTRAINS - A powertrain with a disconnecting rear drive axle generally includes a prime mover including an output that rotates about a rotational axis. A transmission includes an output that rotates about a rotational axis. The rotational axes of the outputs are substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the powertrain. A front driveline is operable to direct rotary power from the prime mover to front vehicle wheels. A rear driveline includes a propeller shaft that provides rotary power to a first shaft member and a second shaft member through a pinion and a ring gear. The first shaft member and the second shaft are operable to connect to rear vehicle wheels. A power switching mechanism has an engaged condition and a disengaged condition. The power switching mechanism is operable to direct the rotary power from the transmission to the rear driveline in the engaged condition. A torque transfer device has an engaged condition and a disengaged condition. The power switching mechanism and the torque transfer device in the disengaged condition are operable to only transmit rotary power to the first vehicle wheels. The torque transfer device in the disengaged condition prevents the first shaft member and the second shaft member from back-driving the ring gear and the pinion of the rear driveline. The power switching mechanism in the disengaged condition prevents the transmission from driving the propeller shaft.

09-20-2012

20120238387

TORQUE TRANSFER UNIT WITH INTEGRATED ELECTRIC DRIVE MOTOR - An axle assembly comprises a power transmission device including a housing having a cylindrically shaped sidewall. The power transmission device selectively communicates rotatable motion from an input member to an output member. A frictional clutch is disposed in the housing and includes a drum. A first and a second axle shaft selectively drive a first and a second drive wheel, respectively. A differential selectively transfers drive torque from the output member to at least one of the first and second axle shafts. An electric motor comprising a coil and a plurality of magnets is provided on the axle assembly. In one example, the coil is disposed on the housing and the magnets are disposed on the drum. The coil is configured to selectively energize to provide one of a positive or negative torque input to the output member.

09-20-2012

20120019053

AXLE HOUSING ASSEMBLY AND METHOD - An apparatus that includes a first member, an insert, and an object. The first member made of a first metal and has a first exterior surface and a first end. A pocket is formed in the exterior surface of the first end. The insert is made of a second, different metal. The insert is connected to the pocket and has a second exterior surface that is flush with the first exterior surface. The object is formed of the second metal and is resistance welded to the insert. The second metal is steel and the first metal is a metal that cannot be resistance welded directly to steel.

01-26-2012

20110269595

CONTROL STRATEGY FOR OPERATING A LOCKING DIFFERENTIAL - A drive train having a locking differential and a control unit for controlling operation of the locking differential. The control unit is responsive to selected vehicle characteristics to sua sponte activate or inactivate a locking mechanism of the locking differential to cause the locking differential to operate in a locked manner or an unlocked manner, respectively. A method for operating a locking differential is also provided. The method includes: utilizing only preselected vehicle criteria indicative of the operational state of the vehicle to identify a situation in which a locking mechanism associated with the locking differential is to be energized; and responsively energizing the locking mechanism.

11-03-2011

20110165989

LOCKING POWER TRANSMITTING DEVICE - A power transmitting device that includes a dog ring and a thrust plate. The dog ring is formed of metal and has a plurality of locking features and a set of dog teeth. The locking features are spaced apart around the dog ring and extend in a radial direction. The dog teeth extend in an axial direction. The thrust plate is formed of a polymer and is cohesively bonded to the dog ring

07-07-2011

20110165951

DUAL-TUNED VIBRATION DAMPER - A driveline with a shaft and a vibration damper coupled to the shaft. The damper includes a hub, a first mass, a first resilient coupling, a second mass, and a second resilient coupling. The first mass is disposed concentrically about the hub. The first resilient coupling resiliently couples the first mass to the hub. The first resilient coupling has a first spring constant. The second mass is disposed concentrically about the first mass. The second resilient coupling resiliently couples the second mass directly to the first mass. The second resilient coupling has a second spring constant that is less than the first spring constant. The first mass and the first resilient coupling are configured to attenuate vibration at a first frequency. The second mass and the second resilient coupling are configured to attenuate vibration at a second frequency. The second frequency is lower than the first frequency.

VEHICLE DRIVELINE COMPONENT HAVING HEAT SINK FOR INCREASED HEAT REJECTION CAPABILITIES - An axle assembly that includes an axle housing assembly, a differential disposed in the axle housing assembly, an input pinion, a pair of axle shafts and a heat sink. The input pinion is coupled to the axle housing assembly and is configured to transmit a rotary input to the differential. The axle shafts are coupled to the differential and housed in the axle housing assembly. The heat sink is coupled to the axle housing assembly and is formed of a material having a thermal conductivity that is greater than that of the axle housing assembly. The heat sink does not consist entirely of a chrome plating, a zinc plating or a cadmium plating.

04-07-2011

20110065544

ELECTROHYDRAULIC TORQUE TRANSFER DEVICE WITH INTEGRATED CLUTCH AND ACTUATOR UNIT - A power transmission device includes a housing, a rotatable input member and a rotatable output member supported in the housing by a pair of bearings. A friction clutch is operable to selectively transmit a requested magnitude of torque between the input member and the output member. The clutch is axially positioned between the bearings. An actuator is operable to provide an actuation force to the friction clutch to generate the requested magnitude of torque.

03-17-2011

20110061956

WHEEL CASING WITH EMBEDDED ROTOR FOR HUB MOTOR - A vehicle drivetrain with a wheel and an inside-out motor. The wheel includes a hub and a rim that is disposed about the hub. The rim includes a sealing bead that is configured to sealingly engage the opposite sidewalls of an inflatable tire. The inside-out motor includes a rotor that is at least partially disposed in the rim.

03-17-2011

20100327674

WHEEL MOTOR - A wheel motor can include a stator adapted to be coupled to a vehicle. The stator can include a body portion and a core extending radially outward from the body portion. A rotor can be disposed about the stator and can have a portion positioned radially outboard of and around the stator core. The rotor can include a plurality of magnets aligned with the stator core, and can be adapted to be coupled to a rotatable vehicle component. At least one winding element can be disposed circumferentially around the stator core, and a controller can be positioned in a pocket integrally formed in the stator body portion. The controller can be coupled to the at least one winding element and can be arranged to selectively provide a current supply to the at least one winding element to generate a magnetic flux to rotate the rotor relative to the stator.

12-30-2010

20100294038

METHOD FOR PREDICTING IMBALANCE OF A PROPELLER SHAFT ASSEMBLY - A method for determining an imbalance of a propeller shaft assembly can include establishing balancing planes relative to certain areas of the propeller shaft assembly and identifying each component of the propeller shaft assembly that could have a potential imbalance condition due to a tolerance variation. The method can also include determining the potential imbalance condition for each identified component, and determining a contribution of each determined potential imbalance condition to a respective pair of the established balancing planes. The method can further include determining a total magnitude of imbalance at the respective pair of established balancing planes based on the determined contributions of each potential imbalance condition, and determining a statistically representative value of the determined magnitude of imbalance.

11-25-2010

20100151982

Helical Differential Assembly With Preloaded Adjustment Mechanism - A vehicle differential assembly includes a differential housing rotatable about an axis. A first output assembly includes a first side gear positioned within the differential housing and a first output member coupled to the first side gear and having an aperture aligned with the axis. A second output assembly includes a second side gear positioned within the differential housing and a second output member coupled for rotation with the second side gear. A first helical pinion gear is meshingly engaged with the first side gear. A second helical pinion gear is meshingly engaged with the second side gear and the first helical pinion gear. A first coupling assembly includes a coupling mechanism disposed in the aperture and a biasing member engaged with the coupling mechanism to bias the first output assembly into frictional engagement with the differential housing.

Differential Assembly With Preload Adjustment Mechanism - A vehicle differential assembly may include a differential housing rotatable about an axis, a first output assembly, a pinion gear, and a first coupling assembly. The first output assembly may include a first side gear and a first output member. The first side gear may be disposed within the differential housing and may be rotatable about the axis. The first output member may be coupled to the first side gear for rotation therewith. The first coupling assembly may be engaged with the first output assembly and may include a coupling mechanism and a biasing member. The coupling mechanism may extend through an opening in the first output member and may be displaceable relative to the differential housing in a direction generally parallel to the axis. The biasing member may be engaged with the coupling mechanism and may urge the first output assembly into frictional engagement with the differential housing.

05-27-2010

20100120570

Torque Transfer Device With Hydrostatic Torque Control System - A power transmission device includes a rotatable input shaft, a rotatable output shaft and a ring gear fixed for rotation with the input shaft. A carrier is fixed for rotation with the output shaft. A pump assembly includes an inner rotor supported for rotation on the carrier and an outer rotor encompassing the inner rotor. The outer rotor is in driving meshed engagement with the ring gear. The pump provides pressurized fluid to one of first and second fluid ports. A flow restrictor is moveable to selectively restrict fluid flow relative to one of the first and second ports.

05-13-2010

20100113207

Differential With Cross Pin Retention System And Method For Assembly - A differential assembly includes a retainer for a cross pin having a bore aligned with a bore formed in a differential housing. The cross pin retainer is positionable at partially-inserted and fully-inserted positions within the cross pin and differential bores. At a first rotational orientation, the cross pin retainer is positionable in its partially-inserted position to temporarily retain the cross pin within the differential housing. At a second rotational orientation, the cross pin retainer is positionable in its fully-inserted position to retain the cross pin within the differential housing. Features of the cross pin retainer cooperate with surfaces formed in the differential housing to allow the cross pin retainer to be fixedly positioned and secured within the differential housing.

05-06-2010

20090305835

Four Pinion Differential With Cross Pin Retention Unit And Related Method - A differential having four pinions supported for rotation on cross pins within a differential case. The differential employs a retainer system for securing the cross pins relative to the differential case. The retainer system can include a retainer, such as a clip or a pair of roll pins, that can secure at least one of the cross pins in place.

12-10-2009

20090294238

ELECTROMECHANICAL ACTUATOR FOR FRICTION CLUTCHES - A friction clutch assembly selectively engages an input member and an output member to allow selective transfer of torque therebetween. The friction clutch assembly includes a clutch pack including a first clutch member operatively coupled to the input member and a second clutch member operatively coupled to the output member. The clutch assembly further includes a plurality of lever arms and an actuating member with a movable member that is movably disposed between the plurality of lever arms. The movable member is movable generally along a linear axis between a disengaged position and an engaged position, and the movable member cams the plurality of lever arms relative to linear axis to cause the first and second clutch members to engage when the movable member moves to the engaged position. The first and second clutch members disengage when the movable member moves to the disengaged position.

12-03-2009

20090235780

Power Transfer Unit with Dual Hypoid Geartrain - A transfer case for use in motor vehicles for transferring drive torque from a powertrain to first and second drivelines includes a first output shaft adapted to transmit drive torque from the powertrain to the first driveline. The second output shaft is adapted to transmit drive torque to a second driveline. The transfer case includes a first spiral bevel gear set driven by the first output shaft and a second spiral bevel gear set driven by the first spiral bevel gear set and driving the second output shaft.

09-24-2009

20090215543

SLIP YOKE WITH INTERNAL SPLINES HAVING PERMANENT COATING AND RELATED METHOD - A propeller shaft assembly operable to transmit torque between drive wheels and an engine of a vehicle generally includes a first cylindrical tube having a first end and a second end. A first cap is fixedly coupled to the first end. A first yoke is fixedly coupled to the first cap. Internal splines are formed within the second end of the first cylindrical tube. The internal splines define a final internal spline profile established by a permanent polyamide coating fixedly coupled to a metal substrate in the form of an oversized internal spline. The final internal spline profile defines a first layer having a first thickness made of the permanent polyamide coating and a second layer having a second thickness made of the metal substrate. The internal splines are operable to transmit the torque when external splines engage the internal splines by only contacting the first layer made of the permanent polyamide coating.

08-27-2009

20090176587

Propshaft With Constant Velocity Joint Attachment - A propeller shaft assembly includes a substantially cylindrical hollow propeller shaft, a stub shaft and a constant velocity joint having inner race and an outer race drivingly interconnected by a plurality of balls. The stub shaft has a first end fixed to the propeller shaft and a second end drivingly coupled to the inner race. The second end includes a portion positioned adjacent to the inner race that defines an outer diameter greater than an outer diameter defined by the interface between the inner race and the plurality of balls.

07-09-2009

20090173155

Axle Assembly With Sensor Assembly - An axle assembly for a vehicle includes an axle housing having a tubular portion. A bimetallic sensor mount having a first region of corrosion resistant material and a second region of weldable material is welded to the tubular portion. A differential unit including a side gear is disposed in a central cavity of the axle housing. An axleshaft having a shaft portion and a target portion with a plurality of teeth is disposed in the tubular portion of the axle housing. The shaft portion is coupled to the side gear. A sensor is coupled to the sensor mount and extends through an aperture in the mount and the tubular portion to locate an end portion of the sensor a predetermined distance from the teeth of the target portion. A method of making an axle assembly having a sintered bimetallic sensor mount is also disclosed.

07-09-2009

20090114465

MECHANICAL LAUNCH ASSIST PROPSHAFT ASSEMBLY - A propeller shaft and energy storage assembly includes a first power transfer mechanism for selectively drivingly interconnecting the propeller shaft and an energy storage device to store energy within the energy storage device. A second power transfer mechanism is operable to selectively retain and release energy stored within the energy storage device. A third power transfer mechanism selectively drivingly interconnects the energy storage device and the propeller shaft when vehicle acceleration is desired.

05-07-2009

20090062021

Shaft Assembly With Universal Joint And Method Of Assembling Same - A universal joint includes a spider, first and second yokes drivingly interconnected by the spider, a plurality of bearing cups and a plurality of retaining members. The first yoke includes spaced apart arms with apertures extending through each arm. The apertures are coaxially aligned with one another and include a circumferential groove spaced apart from an edge of the arm. Each bearing cup is positioned within one of the apertures and in receipt of one of the trunnions. A portion of each bearing cup is positioned in communication with a corresponding groove. Each retaining member is operable to complement the size and shape of the corresponding groove, bearing cup and aperture such that each retaining member couples one of the bearing cups to its associated arm.

03-05-2009

20090058031

STABILIZER BAR ASSEMBLY FOR VEHICLE SUSPENSION SYSTEM - A suspension system having a stabilizer bar assembly with a stabilizer bar structure, an intermediate bushing and a resilient bushing. The stabilizer bar structure includes a center section to which the intermediate bushing is coupled. The resilient bushing is mounted on the intermediate bushing. The intermediate bushing limits relative axial movement of the resilient bushing in along the center section in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction. A method for forming a stabilizer bar assembly is also provided.

03-05-2009

20090054163

Driveshaft Assembly With Piloted Flange Connection - A drivetrain that includes a drivetrain component, a flange structure, a yoke flange, a female guide portion and a male guide portion. The drivetrain component has a shaft that is rotatable about an axis. The flange structure is fixedly but removably coupled to the shaft. The female guide portion is directly coupled to one of the shaft and the yoke flange. The male guide portion is directly coupled to the other one of the shaft and the yoke flange. The male guide portion engages the female guide portion to thereby align the yoke flange to the axis. The yoke flange and the flange structure are fixedly but removably coupled to one another. A method of fabricating a drivetrain is also provided.

02-26-2009

20090048055

Differential With Cross Pin Retention System And Method For Assembly - A differential assembly includes a retainer for a cross pin having a bore aligned with a bore formed in a differential housing. The cross pin retainer is positionable at partially-inserted and fully-inserted positions within the cross pin and differential bores. At a first rotational orientation, the cross pin retainer is positionable in its partially-inserted position to temporarily retain the cross pin within the differential housing. At a second rotational orientation, the cross pin retainer is positionable in its fully-inserted position to retain the cross pin within the differential housing. Features of the cross pin retainer cooperate with surfaces formed in the differential housing to allow the cross pin retainer to be fixedly positioned and secured within the differential housing.

02-19-2009

20090032321

ELECTRIC WHEEL MOTOR ASSEMBLY - A drive axle assembly for driving a wheel of a vehicle includes a moveable suspension arm and a wheel spindle fixed to the suspension arm. A planetary gearset includes a sun gear, a ring gear and a carrier rotatably supporting a plurality of planet gears in meshed engagement with the sun gear and the ring gear. The carrier encompasses the wheel spindle and is drivingly connected to the wheel. An electric motor includes a rotor and a stator. The rotor drives the sun gear.

02-05-2009

20090011889

Locking Differential Assembly - An axle assembly with an electric locking differential that can include a one-piece differential case and a locking device. The locking device includes a dog that is nonrotatably but axially slidably received into a pocket that is formed in an end of the differential case. An actuator is mounted on the differential case. Actuation of the actuator moves the dog into engagement with a second dog that is coupled to a side gear of the differential to thereby lock the side gear to the differential case.

01-08-2009

20090008176

VEHICLE WITH LIVE TWIST BEAM AXLE ASSEMBLY - A drive axle and suspension assembly for a vehicle having a power source and wheels including a torsionally compliant twist beam suspension and a driveline assembly. The twist beam includes a twist element defining a first lateral axis and arm portions adapted to rotatably support the wheels of the vehicle along a second axis extending substantially parallel to the first axis. The driveline assembly is adapted to receive torque from the power source and drive the wheels. The driveline assembly includes a plurality of power transmission rotatably supported by arm portions.

01-08-2009

20080214355

Electrohydraulic Torque Transfer Device - A power transmission device includes an actuator having an electric motor driving a pump to supply pressurized fluid to a piston acting on a friction clutch to transfer torque between rotatable input and output members. In one instance, a valve between the pump outlet and the piston selectively traps pressurized fluid acting on the piston without continued energization of the electric motor. A gerotor may be formed from a material having a first coefficient of thermal expansion and a housing formed from a material having a second lower coefficient of thermal expansion to vary pump component clearances as the viscosity of the pumped fluid changes with changes in temperature. A method of controlling the power transmission device includes defining a correlation between pump speed, fluid temperature and fluid pressure, determining fluid temperature, determining pump speed, and rotating the pump to transfer a predetermined quantity of torque.

09-04-2008

20080196962

Electrohydraulic Torque Transfer Device and Temperature Control System - A power transmission device includes a friction clutch operable to selectively transfer torque between an input member and an output member. An actuator is operable to provide an actuating force to the friction clutch. The actuator includes an electric motor having an output shaft drivingly coupled to a pump. The pump is operable to provide pressurized fluid to a piston acting on the friction clutch. A controller that is switched on and off in response to an ignition signal estimates the temperature of the friction clutch at the time of being switched on based on a time the controller has been off. A method of estimating a temperature of the friction clutch is also disclosed.

08-21-2008

20080196233

Axle housing assembly and method - A method of forming a joint includes providing a first member made of cast iron having an exterior surface and a first end. A pocket is formed in the exterior surface of the first end. An insert made of steel is connected to the pocket. A second member made of cast iron is provided with an aperture. The method includes positioning the first end of the first member within the aperture and positioning a plug made of steel in the second member proximate the aperture. The plug is fixedly connected to the insert.